SBI Card Alert! Reward Point Redemption Rules Changing from April 1 - Check What’s New

If you are using an SBI credit card, this update deserves your attention. SBI Card has announced key changes in its reward point redemption rules. The revised guidelines will come into effect from April 1, 2026, and they may change the way you convert your reward points into statement credit.

Here’s everything you need to know in a simple and clear way.

Monthly Redemption Cap Introduced

Starting April 1, 2026, customers can redeem a maximum of 60,000 reward points per card per month for statement credit.

This means if you have 75,000 points and decide to redeem them in May 2026, you will only be able to convert 60,000 points that month. The remaining points will have to be redeemed later.

However, this cap will not apply to premium cards such as Air India SBI Signature Card, PhonePe SBI Card PURPLE, and PhonePe SBI Card SELECT BLACK.

Redemption Only in Fixed Multiples

Another major change is in how you redeem points. From April 1, 2026, reward points can only be redeemed in multiples of 4,000.
So you can redeem:

• 4,000 points
• 8,000 points
• 12,000 points
• 16,000 points

…up to a maximum of 60,000 points per month.

Again, this rule will not apply to PhonePe SBI Card PURPLE and PhonePe SBI Card SELECT BLACK.

New Forfeiture Rules

SBI Card has also tightened its rules for offers starting January 2026.

• Reward points can now be forfeited within 90 days from the cashback posting date.
• Points linked to instant discount offers can be forfeited within 120 days from the month in which the offer ends.

So, if you’re earning points through special offers, make sure to keep track of timelines.

Changes in Domestic Lounge Access

There is also an update for airport lounge users. From January 10, 2026, SBI Card’s domestic airport lounge program has been divided into two categories.

Lounge access eligibility will now depend on the specific type of card you hold.

How to Redeem Reward Points via SBI Card App

Redeeming points remains simple. Here’s how you can do it through the mobile app:

• Log in to the SBI Card mobile app.
• Tap on the “More” option and select “Rewards.”
• Click on “Redeem” and add your preferred product to the cart.
• Select “Redeem Cart” and proceed to checkout to complete the order.

With these changes coming into force from April 1, 2026, it’s a good idea to plan your reward redemptions wisely. If you have a large pool of points, make sure you understand the new limits and timelines to avoid missing out.